Among the myriad of YA paranormals out there, it is refreshing to find a totally unique concept. In Immortal Beloved, Cate Tiernan introduces readers to the world of immortals who are not vampires or fae or gods or anything of that ilk - but they can do magick.

Nastaysa has spent the majority of her 450 plus years on earth partying and living it up with a group of other like-minded immortals. However, when her best friend paralyzes a man using stronger magick than Nastaysa knew he had, she realizes it is time for a change. Remembering another immortal she met almost a century ago, Nastaysa leaves her glamorous London life and moves to West Lowing, Massachusetts.

At River's Edge, Nastaysa comes under River's tutelage as she learns to replace her inherent dark nature with a light one. Nastaysa's not sure she fits at River's Edge, but with her old friends out looking for her, she has no choice. And the more she stays, the more she learns – about immortals, about herself…and about Reyn, another student who both attracts and repels her at the same time.

Aside from presenting a unique concept, Tiernan has also created a very deep story. Like most YAs, the lead character goes on a journey to discover herself, but Nastaysa's trip is not as straightforward as most. She definitely takes the most circuitous route, even backtracking and getting off the trail at points, but eventually she does gets to where she needs to be. Her journey really pulls readers in, and Tiernan's wonderful world-building keeps them there.

While some questions have been answered, there are still some big ones left, making me eager to read the sequel to Immortal Beloved, Darkness Falls. Cate Tiernan has a winner on her hands and I personally cannot wait to dive into her world once more.

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